Bring authentic flavor to celebrating Oktoberfest at home

While many people dream of stepping into the Munichen tents and raising a stein, that ultimate beer experience is not possible for many people. Luckily, a taste of Germany can be enjoyed a little closer to home.

Certain food and beverages are usually associated with Oktoberfest. The marzen style of beer or fest beer is often the most common beverage poured. While some people will opt for a German brand, there are many breweries who choose to brew their own version. The various malt blends have people thirsting for a second stein.

Given that Wisconsin has a love of brats, pretzels, and cheese, the Leinenkugel Oktoberfest beer is always a great choice. The caramel notes pair delightfully well with a sausage. Although there might not be a Johnsonville Summer Shandy one left from the summer, a hearty brat cooked with beer and onions would be great.

As many beer festival goers appreciate, pretzels are a necessary food to help balance all those beverages. The pretzel necklace can be a fun accessory, but a heartier version is often preferred.

Superpretzel has knotted up a variety of tasty offerings for the seasonal celebration. For example, why not have some pretzel inspired nachos. Instead of traditional tortilla chips, use the Superpretzel Pretzel Bites as the base, top with brats, mustard, beer cheese or other preferred toppings. It is definitely a hearty bite that can keep everyone fueled for the beer drinking.

For a sweeter option, those pretzels can be transformed into a dessert. Instead of trying to master the difficult apple strudel, a pull-apart pretzel skillet makes for a great shareable food.

Using the pretzel bites and a cast iron skillet, the flavor combinations are plenty. From some simple apple pie filling with baking spices and a dollop of cream to a take on a German Chocolate Cake with coconut, nuts, and chocolate, the pretzel bites can be transformed with a multitude of flavor possibilities.

With that sweet ending to an Oktoberfest event, consider swapping another beer for cocktail. Barenjager, which is considered the “original honey liqueur,” is a great choice to transform classic cocktails with some German authenticity.

Originally called “bear trap” in German, the specialty liquor would lure the bears with its sweet, honey forward flavor. Today, it captures the tastebuds and imagination of all types of drinkers.

Since this liqueur is a potent potable, it is best used judiciously. From a hint of sweetness in a Moscow Mule to balancing the pucker in a lemonade cocktail, there are plenty of options.

Personally, the Barenjager is lovely in an Old Fashioned as a supplemental ingredient. While there is often sugar and orange in that whiskey cocktail, adding the honey liqueur adds a roundness and a depth.

Also, the Barenjager is perfect in a Hot Toddy. For anyone who is feeling a little under the weather or “krank” from the first winter chill, this boost to the old school soothing beverage is divine.

Ready to raise a stein, glass, or rousing prost to Oktoberfest? What is your favorite way to celebrate the annual event?